Chapter 52 Joe’s POV The morning air was heavier than usual, almost like the sky knew we were mourning. I stood at the edge of the Mourning Field, a vast stretch of land lined with fluttering banners, each one bearing the crest of a fallen warrior. The wind carried the scent of earth and iron, and every flag whispered stories I couldn’t quite remember… but my soul could. Somewhere deep inside me, I felt them, every face I couldn't recall, every voice I couldn't place. Their families stood in clusters. Mothers with glassy eyes, children too young to understand, fathers with silent pain carved into their expressions. “I’m sorry for your loss,” I told one woman, gripping her hand. She nodded tearfully, placing her free hand over mine. “He believed in you, Alpha. Died fighting for your

